A call for Vedantic worldview towards human centricity in AI ethics

Emphasising on the problem of quantified self and artificial intelligence (AI) systems, this literature review brings ancient Vedanta philosophy and AI ethics together. It reveals that the historic and ongoing efforts in AI ethics fall short in addressing deeper ontological and spiritual dimensions as outlined in Vedanta philosophy. Specifically, prevailing notions of human autonomy and accountability in AI systems overlook the disruption of inner calm and self-realisation processes essential to spirituality by such technologies. It also notes the inadequacy of existing mechanisms to audit the impact of AI on the spiritual well-being of individuals. Proposing a new bottom-up approach, it highlights the value of integrating Vedantic concepts such as the Gunas and Doshas to AI ethics. Developers, leaders, scientists and policymakers who are engaged with human centric AI systems and willing to extend the applicability of spirituality from businesses to technological artefact design may find it helpful.